SM

Overview

SM is a robust single-spindle filament winding machine with 1 spindle and 2-5 axes of motion in a portable design that can be placed on casters. The machine supports Wet winding or towpreg fiber systems and is used with FiberGrafiX winding software. Maximum mandrel diameter is 24 inches and maximum mandrel weight (per spindle) is 750 lbs. Horizontal carriage stroke is available in 96, 144, or 192 inches options and radial carriage stroke (3rd axis) is 12 inches. Spindle speed is 150 RPM, horizontal carriage speed is 60 inches/sec, radial carriage speed (3rd axis) is 40 inches/sec, rotating eye diameter (4th axis) is 4 inches, rotating eye speed (4th axis) is 720 degrees/sec, and maximum fiber tension (total) is 75 lbs. Basic Machine Size (L x W x H) is 144 X 52 X 48 inches and the control system is FWC11 (https://www.etcwinders.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/FWC11_Flyer-for-WEB.pdf). Available winder options include pneumatic tailstock quill, 120 VAC power outlet (or any available power), and a 5th axis (yaw). Available accessories and automation options include ST2 servo tensioning creel, Computer-aided tensioning (CAT) creel, Bookshelf creel, Wet winding drum resin bath, Wet winding dip resin bath, delivery systems (towpreg & wet winding), Towpreg delivery head, Wet winding delivery head, Tape tensioner, Safety fence, Safety light curtains, Safety control systems, Auto tie-on/cut-off system, Tailstock chucks, Filament winder casters, Fanuc CNC Systems, and Fanuc Robot Systems. The SM filament winder is presented for medium-scale and medium envelope part production and is described as economical and portable to increase capacity to medium-sized parts for full-scale production. It is also indicated for low-volume part production and part development and can be relocated on casters for easy movement. The winder is described as greatly suited for pressure vessels, including CNG and CHG tanks. Composite part manufacturing workflows supported by the machine include wet winding and towpreg processes, with FiberGrafiX winding software used to streamline manufacturing.